Relation between Thyroid Function Tests and Body Mass Index among Thyroid Dysfunction Patients

Abstract

Background: Obesity has the potential to impact thyroid function through various pathways, even in individuals considered euthyroid. The relationship between thyroid function and body mass index (BMI) remains a subject of ongoing debate. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to ascertain the correlation existing among thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid hormones, and BMI in patients experiencing thyroid dysfunction within the context of the Smart Health Tower. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Smart Health Tower in Sulaimani city from November 9, 2021, to March 1, 2022. One hundred and sixty-six patients with thyroid dysfunction (128 individuals had hypothyroidism, eight individuals had hyperthyroidism, and 30 individuals were the other type of thyroid dysfunction) were enrolled in this study. Their mean age was 43.62 ± 11.17 and 50.6% of the participation were male. Patients were divided into four groups based on BMI value: Underweight (BMI <18.5 kg/m2), normal (BMI: 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI: 25–29.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Results: The highest rate of age group was between (30 and 40) years old (84%) of them were male. The participants with higher BMI had higher TSH and this trend continued from underweight to Obese. The mean TSH of the underweight group was 0.47 ± 0.61 mIU/L, the normal weight group 1.5 ± 1.91 mIU/L, the overweight group 2.8± 3.87 mIU/L and the obese group 2.7 ± 2.37 mIU/L. Conclusion: A significant relationship between serum TSH and BMI and mean TSH increased as BMI increased. Further large-scale data from the population are required to confirm these findings.

Keywords

• body mass index
• overweight
• obesity
• thyroid dysfunction
• thyroid stimulating hormone